The Hidden Contaminants in Tap Water 

As mentioned earlier British tap water supplies are some of the best-rated in the world according to a Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI) report published in July 2023, which noted that compliance with standards for English public water supplies being at 99.7%.  However, the question we have to ask ourselves is the “standard” that's been set good enough for optimal health?

Despite rigorous treatment processes, tap water can contain various contaminants and toxins. These can range from industrial chemicals to residues from agricultural practices. The presence of these pollutants in our water supply raises concerns about potential health risks. The effect of these contaminants is not just limited to humans but extends to plants and our animal companions. 

Below is a list of contaminants that have been found in tap water.  Please note that the toxins and heavy metals found in tap water can vary from region to region, country to country. We’re also not claiming that these contaminants are in significant quantities to cause any serious health concerns, although we do recommend filtering tap water to minimise ingestion of contaminants as much as possible, these toxins even in minute quantities are best avoided.

• Lead: Often leaches into water from old pipes and plumbing fixtures.
• Chlorine: Commonly used for disinfection, but can react to form harmful by-products. 
• Fluoride: Added for dental health benefits, but its presence is controversial due to potential health risks.
• Nitrates: Can enter water supply from agricultural runoff, posing a risk especially to infants.
• Pesticides and Herbicides: Residues from agricultural practices that can contaminate water sources.
• Microplastics: Increasingly detected in water sources, with potential health implications.
• Pharmaceutical Residues: Medications that pass through sewage treatment and enter water sources.
• Hormones: Including estrogen, which can enter the water system through human and animal waste.
• Perfluorinated Compounds (PFCs): Also known as 'forever chemicals', used in various industrial applications.  Analysis by the Royal Society of Chemistry reveals more than a third of water courses tested in England and Wales contain medium or high-risk levels of PFAS. This group, more commonly known as forever chemicals, is linked to a range of health issues.
• Arsenic: Naturally occurring in some areas and can contaminate water sources.
• Mercury: Can enter water through industrial processes and is toxic in various forms.
• Cadmium: Often originates from industrial waste and corroded metal fittings.
• Copper: Can leach into water from copper pipes, especially in acidic water conditions.
• Aluminum: Sometimes used in water treatment but can be harmful in high concentrations.
• Bacteria and Viruses: Can contaminate water sources, particularly in areas with poor sanitation.

For a full list of contaminants please visit the DWI website.

Benefits of Purifying and Filtering Tap Water

• Enhances Healing: Contaminated water may contain  heavy metals, or chemicals that can impede the body's natural healing processes or even cause additional health problems. By eliminating these contaminants, purified water ensures that the body is not burdened with additional stressors that could slow down healing.

  
  

• Aids in Detoxification: Purified water is instrumental in the body's detoxification process, flushing out toxins and heavy metals that can accumulate from various sources. This helps protect internal systems and contributes to overall bodily health.

  
  

• Enhances Hydration:  Filtered tap water can potentially improve hydration indirectly by removing contaminants that may discourage drinking due to taste or health concerns. 

  
  

• Boosts Energy Levels: Regular consumption of purified water contributes to higher energy levels. Adequate hydration is key to maintaining optimal bodily function, which includes energy production and management.

  
  

• Supports Digestion: Adequate hydration from purified water aids in digestion and can help prevent gastrointestinal issues like constipation and bloating​​.

  
  

• Prevents Disease: Drinking purified water may lower the risk of diseases linked to contaminants in unfiltered water.

  
  

• Improves Mental Well-being: Staying hydrated with purified water can improve mood and reduce the frequency of headaches and feelings of lethargy​​.

  
  

• Improves Taste and Odor: By reducing chlorine and other substances, purified water often tastes and smells better than tap water, which may encourage increased consumption​​. Speaking from personal experience, once you start drinking filtered tap water, you really begin to notice the difference in taste compared to unfiltered tap water. The change is quite apparent. I even give filtered water to my plants and they have been growing very well.

  
  
• PH Balance: Some purification processes can also adjust the pH level of water, making it more alkaline. While the benefits of alkaline water are debated, some people find that it helps with hydration and overall wellness.

Downside of Purifying and Filtering Tap Water

Methods like distillation and reverse osmosis can remove beneficial minerals from water, such as calcium and magnesium, which are essential for health. However this water can be remineralised by adding himalayan, celtic or sea salt.  Some machines also come with cartridges that remineralise the water.

Best Methods For Purifying and Filtering Tap Water

According to Water UK One in five households currently filters their tap water, and 13% boil it before drinking.  It can be quite confusing when reviewing the best ways to purify water, below we have included a list of the most suitable machines and tools we can use in our home for cleaning and filtering tap water, as well as the pros and cons of each.

1.  Reverse Osmosis (RO)

Reverse Osmosis is a sophisticated water filtration method that uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove a wide array of contaminants, including fluoride, heavy metals, dissolved salts, and some microorganisms, from water.

Process & Mechanism

• Process: Water is forced under pressure through a semi-permeable membrane.
• Mechanism: The membrane's fine pores allow only water molecules to pass through, effectively filtering out a wide range of contaminants.

Contaminant Removal

• Effective Against: Fluoride, heavy metals (like lead and mercury), chlorine, bacteria, viruses, and many dissolved inorganic and organic compounds.
• Not Effective Against: It can remove most pesticides, solvents, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) but it may require additional filtration stages.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Highly effective for filtering tap water and in removing a broad spectrum of contaminants; improves taste and odor; available in various sizes and configurations, including standalone units.
• Cons: Requires periodic maintenance and filter replacement; produces some wastewater; may remove some beneficial minerals.

Considerations for Home Use

• Versatility: Available in under-sink models, countertop units, and larger whole-house systems.
• Space and Installation: The size and type of system will dictate the space required; professional installation may be recommended for certain models.

Effectiveness and Price Range

• Effectiveness: Very high in removing a wide range of contaminants.
• Price Range: Varies widely depending on the system size and complexity, typically ranging from £250 for small, simple units to £700 for more advanced systems.

Reverse Osmosis is a highly effective and versatile option for home water purification, capable of addressing a wide range of water quality concerns, including the removal of fluoride and heavy metals.

2.  Water Ionizers (Alkaline Ionizers)

Water Ionizers are devices that both filter and alter the pH level of water through electrolysis, creating alkaline water for drinking and acidic water for other uses.

Process and Mechanism

• Process: Electrolysis is used to split water into alkaline and acidic streams.
• Mechanism: Electrically charged plates change the pH of water. Most units include built-in filters, typically activated carbon, for basic contaminant removal.

Contaminant Removal

• Effective Against: Some models can remove chlorine, certain heavy metals, and some organic compounds.
• Not Effective Against: Generally less effective against fluoride, bacteria, viruses, and more complex chemical contaminants.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Produces alkaline water, which some users prefer for taste and potential health benefits; also provides acidic water for external use; some contaminant removal capability.
• Cons: Not as effective as specialised filtration systems for comprehensive contaminant removal; health benefits of alkaline water are debated; relatively expensive.

Considerations for Home Use

• Installation: Available in various models, including countertop and under-sink versions, fitting different kitchen setups.
• Additional Filtration: In areas with heavily contaminated water or specific concerns like fluoride, it may be necessary to use in conjunction with more thorough filtration systems.

Effectiveness and Price Range

• Effectiveness: Moderately effective for basic filtration and pH adjustment; not a substitute for comprehensive water purification systems.
• Price Range: Generally ranges from £200 to £700 +, making it a more expensive option for water treatment.

In summary, water ionizers provide the dual function of altering water pH and basic filtration, making them suitable for users who prefer alkaline water and need basic contaminant removal. However, for more comprehensive water purification, especially in areas with specific water quality concerns, they should ideally be used alongside more advanced filtration systems.

3.  Activated Carbon Filters (Jugs or Tap-Mounted)

Activated Carbon Filters, available as water jugs or tap-mounted units, use activated carbon to adsorb impurities, improving the taste and quality of tap water.

Process and Mechanism

• Process: Water passes through activated carbon material.
• Mechanism: The porous nature of activated carbon traps contaminants like chlorine, certain chemicals, and organic compounds.

Contaminant Removal

• Effective Against: Chlorine, some heavy metals (like lead), VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), and certain pesticides.
• Not Effective Against: Does not remove fluoride, dissolved inorganic substances, or microorganisms like bacteria and viruses.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Simple to use and install; improves taste and odor; relatively inexpensive.
• Cons: Limited range of contaminant removal; requires regular filter changes; slower flow rate in pitchers.

Considerations for Home Use

• Ease of Use: Ideal for users seeking a basic, user-friendly water filtration solution.
• Maintenance: Regular replacement of the carbon filter is necessary to maintain effectiveness.

Effectiveness and Price Range

• Effectiveness: Moderately effective for certain contaminants; not a comprehensive solution for all water quality issues.
• Price Range: Pitchers typically range from £20 to £50, while tap-mounted units can range from £20 to £100, depending on brand and features.

Activated Carbon Filters are a convenient and cost-effective option for improving the taste and reducing certain contaminants in tap water. They are well-suited for users who want a basic level of water filtration without the need for complex installation or maintenance. However, for more comprehensive water purification, particularly for contaminants like fluoride or bacteria, additional or alternative filtration methods may be necessary.

4.  Boiling 

Boiling is the simplest and most traditional method of water purification, involving heating water to its boiling point to kill pathogens.

Process and Mechanism

• Process: Water is heated until it reaches a rolling boil, typically for 1-3 minutes.
• Mechanism: The high temperature kills bacteria, viruses, and parasites.

Contaminant Removal

• Effective Against: Most types of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and protozoa.
• Not Effective Against: Does not remove chemical contaminants, heavy metals, fluoride, or dissolved solids.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Highly accessible and easy to perform; no special equipment required; very effective against biological contaminants.
• Cons: Time-consuming; energy-intensive; does not improve taste or remove non-biological contaminants; requires cooling before use.

Considerations for Home Use

• Practicality: Ideal for emergency situations or in areas with questionable water quality.
• Energy Usage: Can be energy-intensive, especially if used regularly as the primary method of water purification.

Effectiveness and Price Range

• Effectiveness: Highly effective for eliminating biological contaminants.
• Price Range: No additional cost beyond the regular expense of heating water, such as using a stove or an electric kettle.

Boiling water is a universally accessible method for making water safe from pathogens, particularly useful in emergency situations or when other forms of purification are not available. However, it's not a comprehensive solution for all types of water contamination and is less practical for regular use due to the time and energy required.

5.  Ultra Violet Water Purifiers

UV Water Purifiers use ultraviolet light to disinfect water, effectively neutralising a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and protozoa.

Process and Mechanism

• Process: Water is exposed to UV light as it passes through a chamber.
• Mechanism: The UV light damages the DNA of microorganisms, rendering them harmless and unable to reproduce.

Contaminant Removal

• Effective Against: Most bacteria, viruses, and protozoa.
• Not Effective Against: Does not remove chemical contaminants, heavy metals, fluoride, or dissolved solids.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Highly effective against a wide range of pathogens; does not alter the taste or odor of water; chemical-free.
• Cons: Requires electricity; does not filter out non-biological contaminants; water clarity is important for effectiveness.

Considerations for Home Use

• Installation and Maintenance: Needs to be installed in-line with plumbing and requires a power source. Regular maintenance, including bulb replacement, is necessary.
• Complementary Use: Often used in combination with other filtration methods to provide comprehensive water purification.

Effectiveness and Price Range

• Effectiveness: Very high for disinfecting water from pathogens.
• Price Range: Home UV purification systems can range from around £250 for basic models to £700 or more for advanced systems with additional features.

UV Water Purifiers are an excellent choice for effectively disinfecting water, particularly in areas where microbial contamination is a concern. They are best used in conjunction with other filtration methods to also address chemical, metal, and other non-biological contaminants in water. Their ease of use and low maintenance make them a popular choice for home water purification.

6.  Distillation

Distillation is a process of purifying water by boiling it to produce steam, which is then condensed back into liquid, effectively removing a wide range of contaminants.

Process and Mechanism

• Process: Water is heated until it boils and turns to steam; the steam is then cooled in a separate chamber where it condenses back into liquid water.
• Mechanism: Contaminants with a higher boiling point than water are left behind, while the steam collects as distilled water.

Contaminant Removal

• Effective Against: Most bacteria, viruses, heavy metals (like lead and mercury), fluoride and a range of dissolved solids and chemicals.
• Not Effective Against: Some volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and certain chemicals that have lower boiling points than water.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Produces very pure water; effective against a wide range of contaminants; no need for chemical additives.
• Cons: Energy-intensive; time-consuming; removes beneficial minerals, leading to flat-tasting water; some contaminants with lower boiling points may not be removed.

Considerations for Home Use

• Energy and Time: Requires a significant amount of energy and time to produce a relatively small amount of water.
• Equipment: Requires specific distillation equipment, which can range from simple stovetop models to more complex and automated systems.

Effectiveness and Price Range

• Effectiveness: Very high for removing a wide range of contaminants, particularly inorganic compounds, microbes, and heavy metals.
• Price Range: Home distillation units can range from about £100 for basic models to £500 or more for advanced systems with larger capacities and automated features.

Distillation is a highly effective method for purifying water, especially useful for removing a broad spectrum of contaminants. However, its practicality for home use is limited by its energy requirements, the time it takes to produce distilled water, and the need for specific equipment. It's an excellent choice for those who need very pure water and are willing to invest in the necessary equipment and bear the associated costs.

Conclusion: Navigating Water Purification Options for Home Use

When it comes to ensuring the safety and quality of drinking water at home, there are several effective purification methods available, each with its unique strengths and limitations. Understanding these can help in making an informed decision that best suits individual needs and water quality concerns.

• Reverse Osmosis (RO) stands out for its ability to remove a broad spectrum of contaminants, including heavy metals, fluoride, and certain organic compounds. It's a comprehensive solution for those seeking thorough water purification. It can remove all of the minerals as well (unless it comes with an option to remineralise), however you can get around this issue by adding unrefined salts such as Himalayan, Celtic and Sea salt to your glass of water.
• Water Ionizers adjust the pH level of water and provide basic filtration, but they are not comprehensive in contaminant removal. They are suitable for those interested in the potential health benefits of alkaline water.
• Activated Carbon Filters, available as jugs or tap-mounted units, are user-friendly and effective at improving taste and odor, and removing certain contaminants like chlorine and some heavy metals. They are ideal for basic filtration needs.
• Boiling is a simple and accessible method, highly effective against biological contaminants but does not remove chemical impurities.
• UV Water Purifiers excel in disinfecting water from pathogens without altering its chemical composition, making them a great supplementary method to other filtration systems.

• Distillation is highly effective in removing a wide range of contaminants, including heavy metals and fluoride, but it is energy-intensive and alters the taste of water by removing minerals.

  
  

Each of these methods has its place in home water purification, depending on the specific water quality issues faced and the desired outcome. For comprehensive water quality management, a combination of these methods might be the best approach, ensuring both the removal of a wide range of contaminants and the improvement of water taste and safety. Ultimately, the choice of water purification method should align with individual water quality needs, lifestyle considerations, and budget constraints.